Microchip Technology 24LC32A-E/MS

Overview

24LC32A-E/MS from Microchip Technology is a 32-Kbit I²C-compatible serial EEPROM organized as 4K × 8-bit memory, operating from 2.5V to 5.5V with 400 kHz max clock frequency and industrial-extended temperature range (–40°C to +125°C). It features hardware write-protection via the WP pin, 32-byte page write buffer, and Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity - deployed in automotive body control modules requiring nonvolatile parameter storage across temperature extremes.

For engineers reviewing the 24LC32A-E/MS datasheet, 24LC32A-E/MS pinout, 24LC32A-E/MS application, or 24LC32A-E/MS equivalent, key selection criteria include VCC min (2.5V), E-temp qualification (–40°C to +125°C), MSOP-8 package footprint compatibility, and I²C bus timing compliance at 400 kHz under extended temperature conditions.

Technical Context

The 24LC32A-E/MS implements a two-wire I²C interface with fixed 7-bit client address prefix '1010', where A2/A1/A0 pins define device addressing on shared buses - supporting up to eight devices for 256 Kbit aggregate capacity. Its internal architecture includes a 32-byte page latch, EEPROM array with on-chip charge pump, and address pointer auto-increment logic for sequential reads.

Write operations are self-timed with maximum 5 ms byte/page cycle duration; acknowledge polling enables host synchronization without fixed delays. The device samples the WP pin only at the Stop bit of each write command, enabling dynamic protection state changes between transactions without interrupting ongoing bus activity.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

24LC32A-E/MS is packaged in an 8-lead MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package) with 3 mm × 3 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, and exposed pad optionally connected to VSS. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot; leads are matte tin-plated.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.

Compared with 24LC32AT-I/MS and AT24C32D-MAHM-T, the 24LC32A-E/MS uniquely delivers AEC-Q100 Rev G qualification and guaranteed operation up to +125°C - making it the sole option for automotive powertrain and chassis modules requiring full temperature-range reliability.

Availability

24LC32A-E/MS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLCs, and medical infusion pumps requiring stable component supply with long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for 24LC32A-E/MS includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog, FPGA, and memory solutions, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The 24LC32A-E/MS belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, engineered specifically for automotive and industrial applications demanding extended temperature operation, high endurance, and AEC-Q100 compliance.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the 24LC32A-E/MS?

The 24LC32A-E/MS requires a minimum VCC of 2.5V for full specification compliance, including 400 kHz I²C operation and extended temperature functionality. Operation below 2.5V is not supported - unlike the 24AA32A variant, which operates down to 1.7V. This ensures stable charge pump performance and EEPROM write margin across the full –40°C to +125°C range.

Does the 24LC32A-E/MS support multi-device addressing on a single I²C bus?

Yes, the 24LC32A-E/MS supports up to eight devices on one I²C bus using hardware address pins A2, A1, and A0. Each combination (e.g., A2=0, A1=1, A0=0) selects a unique 7-bit client address (1010xxx), enabling 256 Kbit aggregate memory space. The 24LC32A-E/MS uses these pins identically to the 24AA32A, with no functional difference in addressing logic.

How does the WP pin function during active I²C communication on the 24LC32A-E/MS?

The WP pin on the 24LC32A-E/MS is sampled only at the Stop condition of each write command - not continuously. If WP is pulled high before the Stop bit, the entire write transaction is inhibited (no data written), but the device still acknowledges the command and accepts subsequent reads or new commands immediately. This allows safe dynamic protection without bus blocking.

What is the maximum page write size supported by the 24LC32A-E/MS, and how does boundary crossing behave?

The 24LC32A-E/MS supports a 32-byte page write buffer. Physical page boundaries align to 32-byte intervals (addresses 0x000–0x01F, 0x020–0x03F, etc.). If a page write crosses a boundary, data wraps to the start of the current page instead of advancing - overwriting earlier bytes. Application firmware must enforce alignment to prevent unintended data loss during multi-byte writes.

Is the 24LC32A-E/MS pin-compatible with other Microchip 32-Kbit I²C EEPROMs in MSOP-8 packages?

Yes, the 24LC32A-E/MS shares identical MSOP-8 pinout, footprint, and electrical interface with 24LC32AT-I/MS and 24AA32A-E/MS. All three use the same A0–A2, VSS, SDA, SCL, WP, VCC arrangement. However, voltage range and temperature rating differ: only the 24LC32A-E/MS combines 2.5–5.5V operation with –40°C to +125°C qualification.